After settling into it once again, you and your kids may be used to it by now – you arrive at the kitchen table to prepare for yet another day of balancing your own remote work responsibilities with your kids’ virtual learning.
It’s okay to feel overwhelmed as we head into our third school year in this situation. You’re not alone. From juggling childcare, work schedules, and taking on virtual teaching assistant roles, parents of school-age children have been some of the hardest hit by the pandemic restrictions.
Although there is nothing you can do to control the situation, there are a few tips you can consider to help ease the burden of virtual schooling.
1. Set realistic goals and expectations
Despite your best intentions, you cannot hold yourself to pre-pandemic standards. In addition to boosting your child’s self-esteem, setting realistic learning goals will help you feel more accomplished when you have succeeded at something.
When setting your goals, try to focus on what matters (for example, acquiring a specific skill) and then let go of other standards and expectations. For example, maybe your child learned a new skill but didn’t complete all the assigned homework. Ensure your goals are aligned to your child’s abilities to adapt to virtual schooling, as some children will have an easier time with it than others.
You can always reevaluate your goals and set more attainable ones if you don’t succeed in them. Do the best you can; that’s all that matters.
2. Allow flexibility into your schedule
While routines are important for children, they may need some flexibility as they adjust to virtual schooling. Children find virtual school draining and often struggle to focus during lessons, so it’s okay if they need more frequent “recess” breaks during the day.
Discuss with your child any frustrations they have with online learning and come up with a schedule they feel more comfortable with. You will both enjoy the experience more if you give your child some say in the decision-making process.
3. Lean into your support system
You are not alone in this. Virtual learning presents a challenge for many, if not all, parents. Whether you reach out to your network of peers for advice or join parenting social media groups, no one knows better what you are going through than other parents.
Don’t be afraid to ask your friends and family for help if you find yourself unable to cope. Consider seeking professional help to manage your stress levels and regain a sense of control over your life if you are still feeling overwhelmed.
4. Focus on what you can control
In chaotic times, it is important to focus on the things you can control. Putting a sense of control back into your life can drastically reduce the stress levels in your life. Depending on the circumstances, you may not be able to control how well your child adapts to virtual learning, but you can support the growth and development of your child in other ways, such as providing nutritious meals or engaging in educational games or physical activities.
5. If all else fails, remember it’s only temporary
The pandemic has lasted longer than anyone could have anticipated. Maintaining motivation and being positive can be challenging in stressful situations such as these. You need to keep in mind, however, that both the current situation and any solutions you may have are only temporary.
Establish a weekly schedule of rewards for yourself and your child to help you stay motivated. Treat yourself every week, for example, to a snack, a game, a movie, or some well-deserved self-care!
Do you need extra support managing virtual learning? We offer specialized academic programs and virtual or in-person tutoring available to help your child reach their goals. Learn more about the iHealthOX Academy today.
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